Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants (2026)

The Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants (NAE) is a federal funding initiative administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), aimed at bolstering the capacity of tribal libraries across the United States. With a strong focus on addressing the evolving information needs of Native American and Alaska Native communities, this program provides vital support for libraries that serve as key cultural and educational institutions within their respective tribes. The NAE program is one of several grant offerings from IMLS and represents a targeted effort to empower tribal libraries as they enhance their services, collections, and outreach capabilities. IMLS’s overarching mission is to advance and empower America’s libraries and museums through strategic grantmaking, research, and policy development. This particular grant opportunity supports projects that develop, enhance, or disseminate tools, models, and programs to strengthen library and archival services within Native communities. Eligible projects may include educational programming, digitization and preservation initiatives, oral history documentation, technological upgrades, cultural preservation, and training opportunities for library staff. The grants are designed to support a variety of impactful projects that align with four key objectives: serving community learning needs, improving community well-being, ensuring access to and preservation of information, and providing services in times of emergency or disaster. Funding for the FY 2026 cycle ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 per award, with a total of approximately $3.5 million available across 25 anticipated grants. Projects must be completed within one to two years, beginning on October 1, 2026. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this grant, although applicants may voluntarily include cost share amounts in their proposals. All funds must be used for allowable project costs, which include salaries, equipment, digital technology, training, and programming-related expenses. However, IMLS funds may not be used for construction, general fundraising, or general operating support costs. Eligibility is strictly limited to Federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native villages, regional corporations, or village corporations that offer library and/or archival services to their communities. These services must be free and may include access to books, research databases, community events, and study spaces. Tribes may partner with other entities—such as Tribal colleges or school libraries—but must remain the lead applicant and administrator of the grant. Each Tribe may submit only one application under this opportunity. Projects involving collaborations must ensure that the Tribe meets all eligibility criteria and bears full legal and financial responsibility. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on April 10, 2026. Required application components include the SF-424S form, program information form, a tribal profile, a detailed project narrative, a schedule of completion, a performance measurement plan, a budget form and justification, and key staff résumés. Depending on the project scope, applicants may also need to submit a digital products plan and/or documentation of their indirect cost rate agreement. All materials must follow strict formatting and file-naming conventions to ensure eligibility. Award notifications are expected by September 2026, subject to funding availability and IMLS discretion. Applications will undergo a peer-review process based on project justification, work plan quality, and expected results. IMLS encourages projects that support community learning, workforce development, health access, and civic engagement. Additionally, IMLS highlights the importance of preserving language, cultural heritage, and knowledge within Native communities. Funded projects are required to submit interim and final reports detailing both financial expenditures and performance outcomes.

Align with NAE objectives; demonstrate strong planning, community input, and sustainability. No cost share is needed.